Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake Maps (2026 Updated)

Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse are two major destinations on the popular travel route from Lhasa through southern Tibet. Yamdrok Lake is famous for its turquoise waters and mountain scenery, while Shigatse is known for Tashilhunpo Monastery and its cultural heritage. Both are key stops for international travelers exploring Tibet. These Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake maps show key attractions, locations, distances, and driving routes to help you plan your Tibet tour.

Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake Location Map

Shigatse lies west of Lhasa, while Yamdrok Lake is located south of the city. Shigatse is an important cultural and transportation hub, while Yamdrok Lake is one of Tibet’s most famous sacred lakes. The map below shows their locations and helps you understand the distances between these destinations and Lhasa.

Facts About Shigatse

Location: Southwestern Tibet, China
Distance from Lhasa: about 270–280 km southwest of Lhasa
Altitude: Approximately 3,830 meters (12,566 feet) above sea level
Total Area: About 182,000 square kilometers
Population: Approximately 635,200
Administrative Divisions: Shigatse Prefecture-level City administers 1 district and 17 counties, namely, Samzhubzê District (the main urban center and seat of government), Namling County, Gyantse County, Lhatse County, Sagya County, Tingri County (home to Mount Everest), Nyalam County, Bainang County, Gamba County, Dinggye County, Yadong County, Ngamring County, Xaitongmoin County, Rinbung County, Kangmar County, Zhongba County, Saga County, and Gyirong County.
Famous For: Tashilhunpo Monastery, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and its role as an important gateway to Mount Everest and western Tibet.

Shigatse Transportation:
By Road: China National Highway 318 (G318) and China National Highway 219 (G219) connect Shigatse with other parts of Tibet.
By Train: The Lhasa–Shigatse Railway operates daily services. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
By Air: Shigatse Peace Airport and Shigatse Tingri Airport provide air connections, though flight availability may vary by season.

Shigatse Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Shigatse has a high-altitude plateau climate with strong sunshine and large day-night temperature differences. April to October is generally suitable for sightseeing and overland travel, although summer rain can affect visibility and road conditions. Spring and autumn often offer clearer skies, while mornings and evenings can be cold year-round.

Tips for Visiting Shigatse:
When visiting Shigatse, acclimatize in Lhasa before traveling to higher elevations, and avoid strenuous activities at first. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and warm clothing to cope with strong sunlight and changing temperatures. Check train schedules and flight availability in advance, and allow extra time for long road journeys. If you plan to visit remote areas, carry snacks, and personal medication.

Facts About Yamdrok Lake

Location: Nagarze County, Shannan City, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
Distance from Lhasa: Approximately 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Lhasa
Altitude: About 4,441 meters above sea level.
Total Area: Approximately 638–800 square kilometers, depending on the source and measurement method.
Famous For: Its turquoise waters, snow-capped mountain scenery, and spiritual significance in Tibetan Buddhism.

Yamdrok Lake Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Yamdrok Lake experiences strong sunshine, cool temperatures, and large day-night temperature differences. April to October is also generally suitable for sightseeing, although summer rain may reduce visibility. In winter, freezing temperatures and icy roads can affect travel, so check local conditions before departure.

Tips for Visiting Yamdrok Lake:
When visiting Yamdrok Lake, acclimatize in Lhasa beforehand to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Check local weather and road conditions before departure, especially in winter when ice may affect access. Bring a warm jacket for sudden temperature changes, and respect the lake’s sacred status by following local customs and keeping the area clean.

Shigatse City Map & Tourist Attractions

Shigatse is Tibet’s second-largest city, located about 90 km northwest of Gyantse. It serves as an important cultural and transport hub in the Tsang region. The city features a historic old town at the foot of Shigatse Dzong and a growing modern urban area. Use the Shigatse City Map to locate these attractions and plan your sightseeing before continuing to other destinations, such as Everest Base Camp.

Tashilhunpo Monastery
Founded in 1447, Tashilhunpo Monastery is the historic seat of the Gelugpa Panchen Lama. The complex features golden-roofed chapels, the famous 26-meter-tall gilded Maitreya Buddha statue, and a scenic hillside kora circuit offering panoramic city views.

Shigatse Old Town
Shigatse Old Town features traditional streets, local shops, and markets where visitors can observe everyday life and explore the city’s Tibetan culture.

Shigatse Dzong
Shigatse Dzong is a historic fortress situated on a hill overlooking Shigatse. Its traditional Tibetan architecture is sometimes compared to a miniature Potala Palace, and its elevated position offers views of the surrounding area.

Shalu Monastery
Shalu Monastery is known for its Buddhist studies and meditation practices. It also houses valuable cultural relics, including ancient frescoes, sutra boards, stone basins, and stone tablets.

Summer Palace of Panchen Lamas
Located about 1 km south of Tashilhunpo Monastery, the Summer Palace of the Panchen Lamas offers a closer look at the history of the Panchen Lamas. It is a worthwhile stop for travelers interested in Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditional architecture.

Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse Travel Map

The Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse travel map helps you plan an overland journey through southern Tibet. A common sightseeing route runs from Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake, then continues through Gyantse to Shigatse. Use the map to check the locations of major stops and plan your driving route.

Foreign visitors must arrange their Tibet tour through an authorized travel agency and travel with a licensed guide. Check road conditions and allow enough time for sightseeing stops along the route.

Recommended Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse Travel Packages:
6 Days Lhasa Yamdrok Shigatse Small Group Tour
7-Day Lhasa Everest Gyirong Overland to Kathmandu Small Group Tour
8-Day Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

FAQs About Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake Maps

1) How far is Yamdrok Lake from Lhasa?
Yamdrok Lake is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Lhasa. By car or tour bus, the scenic drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, passing over the spectacular Gampa La Pass (4,790 m).

2) How far is Shigatse from Lhasa, and how long does it take to drive?
Shigatse is approximately 270 km (168 miles) from Lhasa by road, and the direct drive usually takes about 4–5 hours. If you take a sightseeing route via Yamdrok Lake or Gyantse, allow extra time for stops along the way.

3) Can I drive or rent a car independently to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse?
No. Foreign passport holders cannot travel independently in Tibet or simply rent a car and drive themselves. They must arrange an organized tour through an authorized travel agency, which coordinates the vehicle, driver, and licensed local guide.

4) What Tibet travel permits are required to visit Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse?
Foreign passport holders generally need a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) to enter Tibet. An authorized travel agency like Tibet Horizon can arrange the permit and organize the tour for you. Ordinary visits to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse generally do not require additional permits.

5) Is altitude sickness a concern when traveling from Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse?
Yes. While Lhasa sits at 3,650 meters, Gampa La Pass reaches 4,790 meters and Yamdrok Lake lies at 4,441 meters. Spend at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Lhasa before driving to Shigatse, which sits at about 3,830 meters.

Conclusion

The Shigatse and Yamdrok Lake maps help you locate major attractions, understand travel distances, and plan routes across southern Tibet. From the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake to the cultural landmarks of Shigatse, these destinations offer a memorable mix of natural beauty and Tibetan heritage. Check the latest road conditions and travel arrangements before departure, and plan your journey with a licensed Tibet travel agency (like Tibet Horizon) for a smooth Tibet trip.